Historical Note

IT’S BEEN MORE THAN 150 YEARS since the publication of Little Women, and our culture continues to be fascinated by this seemingly simple domestic tale. In many ways, its message is revolutionary. And in many ways, it is as old as time, calling each of us to our own good works and independence, calling each of us to love one another well.

As always, when writing of a true historical figure, I feel both excitement and a burden to portray them as they truly were and honor their memory. To take on Louisa May Alcott, such a fiercely admired lady and author, was a task I did not take lightly.

In preparation for this mission, I read several respected biographies as well as her published letters and journals. Though I had read Little Women before, I reread the beloved classic, as well as the books of hers mentioned within—Hospital Sketches, Moods, and Fair Rosamond (published in 1995 as A Long Fatal Love Chase). In my research, I gained insight into this woman—so much more than simply fictional Jo March. I gained respect for her and felt her sadness over much of the tragedy that played out in her life. Many times, particularly in dialogue and letters, I have used her own words from her letters and journals to keep a tone of authenticity within them.

Louisa was a champion of the underdog—whether it be the enslaved African, the voteless woman, the widowed beggar, her orphaned nephews and husbandless sister, or hardworking Marmee, I could imagine what this strong-willed woman’s response would be to a friend in Johanna’s situation.

Her experience with Johanna’s brother John Suhre did happen, though she fictionalized some of it in Hospital Sketches. John did leave behind a brother and a sister, whose names I’ve kept, but the similarities end there and from then on are entirely fictionalized.

I had the pleasure of visiting Orchard House while researching, and I would heartily encourage New England visitors to take a tour if in the area. From the Revolution to the Renaissance, Concord is a town bursting with history and culture.

Though I have not witnessed domestic abuse firsthand, I have known women who have suffered its harmful effects. If you are a woman who finds yourself in a situation like Victoria’s or Johanna’s, or you know someone in an abusive relationship, I hope you will reach out for help. There are some great resources online at thehotline.org. No one should have to live in fear. Please know I am praying for you and that you are not alone.

I also pray the legacy of women like Louisa Alcott may continue on in our literature, minds, and hearts and that the Lord would use them to inspire hope, freedom, and most of all, love.